Part of North America’s Great Lakes system, Lake Michigan is a massive body of fresh water bordering the states of Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. Lake Michigan is the only one of the five Great Lakes located completely in the United States, while the other Great Lakes share borders with Canada. It is the second largest of the lakes by volume and third largest by surface area, while also being the largest lake contained in a single country. Major destinations and ports along the shoreline include Chicago, Green Bay, Grand Traverse Bay, and Muskegon.
With its impressive size, Lake Michigan is home to thousands of animal and fish species, making it a haven for both commercial and recreational fishing. One of the most common sport fish in the lake is the rainbow trout, also known as “steelhead.” These large trout are known for their rod-fighting action, as well as their delicious taste when cooked in various forms. Lake Michigan also contains brown trout, as well as “trophy” lake trout, which can grow to over 40 pounds in size. In the summer months, these large lake trout are in the deeper waters of 120 feet or more, while in the spring and late fall they can be found in shallow waters of 10 feet.
Lake Michigan also contains the prized freshwater salmon, which usually puts up a huge fight when hooked, making it a popular sport fish. The lake has two species of salmon, the Coho and Chinook, which are usually caught beginning in the early summer months. Many anglers prefer to hook these large fish in the late summer months, as they inhabit shallower parts of the lake during that season.
Largemouth and smallmouth bass are also popular in Lake Michigan. The shoreline along Indiana and the smaller nooks and crannies of the tributaries are popular places for fishermen looking to hook these fish. Bass often prefer rocks and outcroppings close to shore, making it possible to fish from either watercraft or land. Many anglers use small trolling motors and even canoes and kayaks to easily navigate the shallow waters along the shore.
In the winter months, many fishermen are looking for yellow perch. In cold weather, perch will often migrate to warmer, shallower waters around ports and harbors. This makes them relatively easy targets, as there is little travel required.
For those looking to fish on Lake Michigan for the first time, many suggest using a charter boat service. Due to Lake Michigan’s incredible size, the weather can be unpredictable and the conditions dangerous for novice boaters. Licensed charter fishermen often know the best places to catch specific types of fish and are fully equipped with the knowledge and equipment to safely fish the deep and rough waters.
Some recreational anglers also choose to fish from the land at various piers and port locations. There are often places to rent rods and buy bait and tackle, making this a popular choice for travelers or those looking to try fishing as a new hobby for the first time. Another option in the winter months is ice fishing. This is often best done with a professional, as drilling into the ice can be extremely dangerous without the right knowledge and equipment. Many choose to ice fish in the shallower waters of ports and harbors, as the ice develops a thicker layer, providing a safer venue.
